Mary Guzman First 10 books
1 Martin, Bill Jr. Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1967. 38 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Picture book. Language: English
In this colorful book by Bill Martin Jr and illustrated by Eric Carle we are introduced to many different animals and colors. Each animal repeats the same phrase this helps to keep students engaged with the book. Martin Bill Jr was born in Kansas. He wrote over 300 books for children; his first book was published in 1945. Mr. Martin at one point in his life was an elementary school principal in Chicago. His good friend Eric Carle illustrated this book.
This is one of my favorite children’s books and the illustrator Eric Carle is one of my favorite authors. This book is old but does not show its age because it is still used and well known. Every time I read the book it feels like the first time I read it. I enjoy reading this with children because they I enjoy the repetition that allows them to keep engaged in the reading. The different vivid colorful animals keep the children wanting to find out what animal comes next. This book is great for teaching animals and colors.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
2 Numeroff, Laura Joffe. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. New York: Harper Collins Publisher, 1985. 32 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre Picture story book. Language: English
In this wonderfully illustrated book we get the opportunity to meet a mouse. This little mouse is given one cookie and after this he begins to ask for different silly items thru out the book. This book keeps the children’s attention by having them wonder what the little mouse could ask for next. Laura Joffe Numeroff grew up in Brooklyn, New York her mother a school teacher always surrounded her by art and books. In college she started out as fashion designer major and ended up hating everything about it.
This is another one of my favorite books, because the illustrations are so vivid. I love this book so much that I created an Apron story out of it that I still use today. Every time I read this book I feel like a little kid again. I love the way the author arranged the story to keep the children engaged. The little mouse fills the story with suspense on what he will ask the boy for next. This is a book that every teacher should have in her collection of books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
3 Lobel, Arnold. Frog and Toad Are Friends. New York: Harper & Row Publisher, 1970. 64 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Chapter book. Language: English
This classic book containing the firs 5 story about Frog and Toad is a great way to introduce these two characters to children. This book with not so vivid pictures will still keep the attention of children because of the wonderful stories with in it. This book covers stories about hibernation, friendship, self-esteem and many other topics that will keep the children engaged. Mr. Lobel was born in 1933 in New York and died in 1987. Mr. Lobel won the Caldecott Medal in 1981 for his book Fables.
This classical book is still used today because it is a great addition to any library. Mr. Lobel's illustrations were not very vivid, but his stories made up for it. He used his ideas for his characters from cartoons that his children use to watch. I remember reading Frog and Toad as a child and looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series. Mr. Lobel uses real life situations that children can relate to and that are what makes his books so wonderful. I look forward to one day using these books with my students.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
4 Kellogg, Steven. Pecos Bill. New York: William Morrow and Company Inc., 1986. 48 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Traditional Fantasy. Language: English
This classical story about Bill who received his name because he fell out of his parent wagon while crossing the Pecos River. This book can be very interesting for children who have never read about Pecos Bill. It allows the reader to read about the many adventures that Pecos Bill had from childhood to adulthood. I thought the story was greatly illustrated, but the Texas vocabulary was a little confusing. Steven Kellogg’s has illustrated over 80 picture books for children. He is also the illustrator of Chicken Little.
I really enjoyed looking at the vivid and colorful illustrations by Mr. Kellogg. He presents this book in a great manner retelling the story of Pecos Bill. His character Pecos Bill is a strong a strong cheerful character that will keep the children wanting to know what adventure he will encounter next. I think that this book will keep the audience entertained specially those who love books about adventure.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
5 Zelinsky, Paul. Rumpelstiltskin. New York: E.P. Dutton., 1986. 40 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Folktale. Language: English
In this classical story Zelinsky uses wonderful illustrations to draw the readers into this classical story. The illustrations will wow the audience who love old classical paintings because this book is filled with them. The story is the traditional story of Rumpelstitskin who offers to spin the straw into gold for things in return. Mr. Zelinsky is from Wilmette Illinois. Zelinsky is the winner of the Caldecott award and the creator of the Wheels on the Bus. He attended Yale College and that’s where he discovered his passion for writing as sophomore.
This is a story that I grew up hearing as a child and enjoyed rereading it in this book. I must admit that as I child I loved hearing this story over and over again. I liked hearing it so much because the poor queen got to beat the bad guy at his own game. However I had never seen a book with such great illustrations as this one. I love art and these illustrations definitely impressed me. They are so vivid and look so real that they make the children stop and stare at the pictures. Zelinsky does a great job of retelling this classical story.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
6 Coles, Robert. The Story of Ruby Bridges. New York: Scholastic Inc., 1995. 32 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Historical Fiction. Language: English
This heart compelling book tells the story of a girl named Ruby who was born in Mississippi and moved to New Orleans her family was very poor. Ruby is a strong little six year old who decides that she is stand up for herself and attend an all white school. This book is filled with courage that will make kids want to stand up for what they believe in. Not only is the story great, but the illustrations that come with the book are outstanding. This book makes a great addition to any library. Dr. Cole is a child psychiatrist who has worked with children all over United States. He attended Harvard University and has done a lot of research for them on children. He currently lives in Boston, Massachusetts.
I had never heard of this book but I absolutely loved it. I think it teaches the children to have self-esteem and courage. It makes them want to stand up for what they believe in. It was written wonderfully by Mr. Cole. His area of expertise shines in this book. This book has the ability to touch children as well as adults. I look forward to one day reading this to my students. I loved one of the quotes in the book that illustrates the compassion that children can show towards ignorance: “Please, God, try to forgive those people. Because even if they say those bad things; They don’t know what they are doing.” This is a book teachers must read.
7 Lionni, Leo. A Color of His Own. New York: Alfred A. Knopf Publishers,
1975. 40 pages. Ages Baby to Preschool. Genre: Picture book. Language: English
This is the story of a chameleon searching for his own color, which ends up finding a true friend. This allows students to look not only at the different colors that the chameleon can turn, but the meaning of being unique. When the chameleon meets another chameleon they begin to travel together, and learn that friendship is more important. Mr. Lionni wrote and illustrated over 40 children’s books. He is four time winner of Caldecott award for his Inch by Inch, Frederick, Swimmy, and Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse.
I love this book because I believe that everyone can relate to it. We have all felt the need to belong and this book addresses this issue. The pictures are very colorful and illustrate the many colors the chameleon can turn. It is a very easy to read and follow book. The message behind this book is about being unique is great. I think that even though this book is for baby to preschool children it can be used with any grade level. The message goes beyond the grade levels.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
8 Johnson, Crockett. Harold and the Purple Crayon. New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 1955. 64 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Picture story book. Language: English.
This short story is about a little boy named Harold who one night decides to create his own adventure. Harold is able to this with the help of a purple crayon. He lets his imagination go wild and draws his adventures thru out the book. Crocket Johnson is actually this author’s nickname, his real name is David Johnson Leisk. Before becoming a children’s book illustrator he use to draw comic strips for the newspaper. He wrote an
illustrated over 20 books children. His characters were simple and unique, like Harold.
This is a great book that I enjoy reading over and over. It is a perfect book to show the children what you can do if you let your imagination go wild. I like this book because you can use it to model how to create your own stories. This allows the children to see that you do not need much to create a story but a crayon. The illustrations are very simple and to the point. This simple, short books makes a great addition to any library.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
9 Pelzer, Dave. A Child Called “IT”. Omaha, Nebraska: Health Communications Inc., 1995. 195 pages. Ages 15 and older. Genre: Chapter book/Survival story. Language: English.
This book is the author’s story about his child abuse case. He was severely abused by his mother and neglected by his father. In this book he tells the many different ways his mother tortured him. He recalls how he survived and gives inspiration to those who might have faced or a facing similar situation. Mr. Pelzer is the number one New York Times and international best selling author. He is the recipient of The National Jefferson Award. He is an inspirational man that has overcome many obstacles in his life.
This is one of my ultimate favorite books; I have read this several times and have cried every time. This book makes people reflect on the beauty of life. It is an inspiration to those who are facing similar situations. This book can be controversial but I think it’s important for every teacher to read because it allows them to see what students might be going thru. This book offers a special look on the abuse that some children go thru. Students can benefit from this book because it might give them inspiration to speak out if they are having problems or know someone who needs help.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
10. Carle, Eric. The Very Hungry Caterpillar. New York: Philomel Publications Inc., 1981. 32 pages. Ages baby to preschool. Genre: Picture Book. Language: English.
This book allows the students to discover change. Thru this book they will discover how a fat caterpillar becomes a beautiful butterfly. This book with beautiful illustrations and pages that go from short to long will keep the students attention from beginning to end. This book has been translated into more than 45 languages and sold over 25 million copies. Mr. Carle has illustrated over seventy children books. He has won many awards for his work on this book.
This is one of absolute favorite books. So many lessons can be taught from this book. I recently did a lesson that integrated math and science that the children loved. They can learn to count, recognize fruit and discover change. They get to see how an ugly caterpillar can turn into a beautiful butterfly. This book can be integrated into every subject in the curriculum. It is a great book to start a thematic unit on butterflies. This classic is a must have in every library.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
Second 10 annotated books
1.
Flor Ada, Alma.Me llamo Maria Isabel. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1995. 58 pages. Ages: 4-10. Genre: Non-fiction. Language: Spanish and English.
This book is a great story about a little girl who moves from Puerto Rico to New York. She is afraid that she will not have any friends, but her real problem begins when her teacher introduces her as Mary and starts calling her that. Maria Isabel is afraid and does not know how to tell her teacher that her name is not Mary. As the story unfolds we discover the many feelings that Maria Isabel experiences. At the end of the book Maria Isabel’s wish becomes true when her teacher and classmates begin calling her by her name. Alma Flor Ada writes this book wonderfully, this book should be in every teacher’s library. Alma Flor Ada is the founder and First Editor in Chief
NABE, Journal of the National Association for Bilingual Education. Alma Flor Ada received several awards for many of her children’s books. Alma Flor Ada did her post-doctoral research at Harvard University
This is an excellent book that every teacher should read. As I read the book I could relate to Maria Isabel’s story. I could relate when she moved, and being called a different name. The story was easy to follow and had a great plot. This is a lesson for teacher and students to learn. As educators we must make and effort to call every child by the correct name. This book is a great addition to any library. I really enjoyed reading this book.
This book is about a little boy who becomes friends with a tree. As a little boy he asks the tree for things and the tree willingly gives them to him to make him happy. As the little boy gets older he keeps asking the tree for things until everything is gone. One day when he gets older he returns and realizes the tree has nothing left to give, but he also has nothing else to ask for. The only thing the boy wants is the trees friendship and company. This books simple illustration by Shel Silverstein goes beyond what words can say. Shel Silverstein grew up in Chicago and has won many awards for his books and illustrations. This is an excellent book for reflections on how sometimes we ask for much and do not give anything in return. It made me reflect on how important a friendship can be. It also makes you think about how important the company things are. I loved reading this book because it truly makes me reflect on life. It is a great book that allows one to see how important it is not only to receive, but also to give. Students and teachers can learn valuable lessons form this book.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
3. Munoz Ryan,Pam.Becoming Naomi Leon. New York: Scholastic Paperbacks, 2005. 272 pages. Ages: 13 to 18. Genre: Young Adult Novel. Language: English.
This book is an excellent book for young adults to read. It is the story of Naomi and her brother who were abandoned by their mother. Naomi is somewhat of an outcast who carves little sculptures of soap to pass time. Naomi and her brother live with their grandmother until one day their evil mother shows up and tries to reclaim them. The grandmother who is determined to let this happen takes them on a trip to find their long lost father to prevent the mother from taking them. This is where Naomi discovers herself when she realizes that her father also carves radishes. This book is filled with suspense and excitement. Pam Muñoz Ryan has written over twenty-five books for children. Her novel, Esperanza Rising is the winner of the Pura Belpre Medal. This book is a great book to own it is a story of courage and hope. It allows the teacher and students to see how it feels to be an outcast. This book allows people to experience and feel the feelings that Naomi experiences through Pam’s writing. I think this book will allow the students to participate and interact in the discussions and issues that this book brings up. This book also incorporates culture and geography when Naomi and her family travel to Mexico. This is a great book for students and teachers.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
4. Rowling,J.K.Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone. New York: Arthur A. Levine Books, 2003. 309 pages. Ages: 9 to 12. Genre: Contemporary fantasy . Language: English. The book begins by introducing us to Harry and his family story. We soon find out that Harry is really a wizard, and is about to leave his horrible life. Harry embarks on a journey in his new school that introduces us to the art of wizardry and magic. We get to meet his friends Ron and Hermione and his enemies. This book is filled with surprises and magical problems that must be solved. J.K. Rowling hooks you in with this first book of her series. After reading this you are sure to look forward to reading the rest of the series. J.K. Rowling was born and raised in England. J K Rowling was voted author of the year at the 1999 British Book Awards and won the Booksellers Association Authorof the Year award two years in a row (1998 and 1999). She won the W H Smith Children’s Book of the Year for 2000 and in 2004; she was awarded the WH Smith’s Fiction Award. This is one of my favorite books. I love how this book has no boundaries and can take children and adults into a fantasy world. The characters encounter problems that they must face and overcome. Friendship and humor play a big role on why this is one of my favorite books. I would recommend this book not only for children but also for adults. It is a book that will take into a new unforgettable magical place.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
5. Blume, Judy.Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. New York: Penguin Group, 2003. 128 pages. Ages: 9 to 12. Genre: Contemporary realistic fiction. Language: English.
This book is about a fourth grader named Peter as the title implies. He has a little pest brother named Fudge who always manages to get him in trouble. Peter is tired of Fudge always following him around and bothering him. He is especially angry because Fudge manages to mess with his turtle Dribbles that he won at a birthday party. Fudge ends up plenty of messy situations that Peter must clean up. Judy Blume is the author of this book that she wrote in 1972 and still enjoyed by many. Judy Blume also writes books for adults. Judy Blume is a New York’s best selling author.
This book is very easy, fun, enjoyable reading for children. It is a book that many children can relate to. I know that when I read this as a child I could imagine myself in Peter shoes. I had a pest sister that was always getting me in trouble. I think this is one of the reasons kids enjoying reading this book because they can relate to Peter and the situations he has overcome. I think this book will encourage children to read some of Judy Blume’s other books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
6. Carle, Eric. The Very Busy Spider. New York: Philomel Publication Inc., 2000. 24 pages. Ages: Baby to Preschool. Genre: Picture book. Language: English.
Thru this book the children are introduced to the concept of time with a busy spider. They will also be introduced to farm animals that can be found on a farm. These farm animals ask the spider to play but she is too busy to play. She builds her web because she needs to catch her food. By the end of the book the children get to see the spiders completed web. Mr. Carle has illustrated over seventy children books. He has won many awards for his work on this book.
This book like many other of Eric Carle books is one of my favorite. I love the illustrations that are found in this book. I also like how he uses nature to introduce new things to children. They will enjoy reading this book because it teaches them time, farm animals, and about spider. This a great book that makes a good addition to all the other Eric Carle books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
7. Carle, Eric. Pancakes, Pancakes! New York: Scholastic Inc., 1990. 36 pages. Ages: 4 to 8. Genre: Picture story book. Language: English.
This book is about Jack who wants pancakes for breakfast, but before he can have them he must first get the ingredients together. He must go to the mill and get the wheat ready; he must also get an egg from a chicken, get milk from a cow, and make the butter. This book allows children to see the steps involved in making Jacks breakfast. It is very easy reading and has great illustrations. Eric Carle has illustrated over seventy children’s books and was won many awards for writing and illustrations.
I like this book because it shows children procedure. It allows them to see how pancakes are made from scratch. This book can be used for story sequencing it makes a great addition to children’s library. They can see that in order to make pancakes many items are needed. They can also discover where the items that are needed come from. They get an opportunity to see that milk comes from cows and eggs come from chickens. It is a very fun and entertaining book to read.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
8. Numeroff, Laura Joffe. If You Give a Pig a Pancake. New York: Harper Collins Publisher, 1998. 32 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre Picture story book. Language: English
In this wonderfully illustrated book we get the opportunity to meet a pig. This little pig is given one pancake and after this he begins to ask for different silly items thru out the book. This book keeps the children’s attention by having them wonder what the pig could ask for next. Laura Joffe Numeroff grew up in Brooklyn, New York her mother a school teacher always surrounded her by art and books. In college she started out as fashion designer major and ended up hating everything about it.
This is another one of my favorite books, because the illustrations are so vivid. I love this book so much that I read it to my nephew and daughter all the time. Every time I read this book I feel like a little kid again. I love the way the author arranged the story to keep the children engaged. The little pig fills the story with suspense on what he will ask for next. This is a book that every teacher should have in her or his collection of books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
9. Lionni, Leo. Frederick. New York: Dragonfly Books, 1973. 32 pages. Ages: 4 to 8. Genre: Picture book. Language: English
This story is about a mouse named Frederick that whiles all the other mice are busy preparing for winter he spends his time engaged in other things. Frederick would rather engage himself in collecting the suns rays, words, and colors. During the winter months the children will discover why Frederick collected the suns rays, colors, and words. Mr. Lionni wrote and illustrated over 40 children’s books. He is four time winner of Caldecott award for his Inch by Inch, Frederick, Swimmy, and Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse.
I think this book is one of Mr. Lionni's best works. His illustrations speak for themselves in this book. They fill up the pages with wonderful colors and images. The children will discover that not only is it necessary to gather food to survive that many other things can contribute to survival of winter. They will get to discover the magic of words when Frederick creates his poem at the end of the story.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
10. Numeroff, Laura Joffe. If You Give a Moose a Muffin. New York: Harper Collins Publisher, 1991. 32 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre Picture story book. Language: English
In this wonderfully illustrated book we get the opportunity to meet a moose. This moose is given one muffin and after this he begins to ask for different silly items thru out the book. This book keeps the children’s attention by having them wonder what the moose could ask for next. By the end of the story the moose finishes all the muffins offered by the host. Laura Joffe Numeroff grew up in Brooklyn, New York her mother a school teacher always surrounded her by art and books. In college she started out as fashion designer major and ended up hating everything about it.
This is another one of my favorite books, because the illustrations are so vivid. I love this book because it teaches the children about kindness and being a good host. Every time I read this book I feel like a little kid again. I love the way the author arranged the story to keep the children engaged. The little moose fills the story with suspense on what he will ask for next. This is a book that every teacher should have in her or his collection of books.
First 10 books
1
Martin, Bill Jr. Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1967. 38 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Picture book. Language: English
In this colorful book by Bill Martin Jr and illustrated by Eric Carle we are introduced to many different animals and colors. Each animal repeats the same phrase this helps to keep students engaged with the book. Martin Bill Jr was born in Kansas. He wrote over 300 books for children; his first book was published in 1945. Mr. Martin at one point in his life was an elementary school principal in Chicago. His good friend Eric Carle illustrated this book.
This is one of my favorite children’s books and the illustrator Eric Carle is one of my favorite authors. This book is old but does not show its age because it is still used and well known. Every time I read the book it feels like the first time I read it. I enjoy reading this with children because they I enjoy the repetition that allows them to keep engaged in the reading. The different vivid colorful animals keep the children wanting to find out what animal comes next. This book is great for teaching animals and colors.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
2
Numeroff, Laura Joffe. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. New York: Harper Collins Publisher, 1985. 32 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre Picture story book. Language: English
In this wonderfully illustrated book we get the opportunity to meet a mouse. This little mouse is given one cookie and after this he begins to ask for different silly items thru out the book. This book keeps the children’s attention by having them wonder what the little mouse could ask for next. Laura Joffe Numeroff grew up in Brooklyn, New York her mother a school teacher always surrounded her by art and books. In college she started out as fashion designer major and ended up hating everything about it.
This is another one of my favorite books, because the illustrations are so vivid. I love this book so much that I created an Apron story out of it that I still use today. Every time I read this book I feel like a little kid again. I love the way the author arranged the story to keep the children engaged. The little mouse fills the story with suspense on what he will ask the boy for next. This is a book that every teacher should have in her collection of books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
3
Lobel, Arnold. Frog and Toad Are Friends. New York: Harper & Row Publisher, 1970. 64 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Chapter book. Language: English
This classic book containing the firs 5 story about Frog and Toad is a great way to introduce these two characters to children. This book with not so vivid pictures will still keep the attention of children because of the wonderful stories with in it. This book covers stories about hibernation, friendship, self-esteem and many other topics that will keep the children engaged. Mr. Lobel was born in 1933 in New York and died in 1987. Mr. Lobel won the Caldecott Medal in 1981 for his book Fables.
This classical book is still used today because it is a great addition to any library. Mr. Lobel's illustrations were not very vivid, but his stories made up for it. He used his ideas for his characters from cartoons that his children use to watch. I remember reading Frog and Toad as a child and looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series. Mr. Lobel uses real life situations that children can relate to and that are what makes his books so wonderful. I look forward to one day using these books with my students.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
4
Kellogg, Steven. Pecos Bill. New York: William Morrow and Company Inc., 1986. 48 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Traditional Fantasy. Language: English
This classical story about Bill who received his name because he fell out of his parent wagon while crossing the Pecos River. This book can be very interesting for children who have never read about Pecos Bill. It allows the reader to read about the many adventures that Pecos Bill had from childhood to adulthood. I thought the story was greatly illustrated, but the Texas vocabulary was a little confusing. Steven Kellogg’s has illustrated over 80 picture books for children. He is also the illustrator of Chicken Little.
I really enjoyed looking at the vivid and colorful illustrations by Mr. Kellogg. He presents this book in a great manner retelling the story of Pecos Bill. His character Pecos Bill is a strong a strong cheerful character that will keep the children wanting to know what adventure he will encounter next. I think that this book will keep the audience entertained specially those who love books about adventure.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
5
Zelinsky, Paul. Rumpelstiltskin. New York: E.P. Dutton., 1986. 40 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Folktale. Language: English
In this classical story Zelinsky uses wonderful illustrations to draw the readers into this classical story. The illustrations will wow the audience who love old classical paintings because this book is filled with them. The story is the traditional story of Rumpelstitskin who offers to spin the straw into gold for things in return. Mr. Zelinsky is from Wilmette Illinois. Zelinsky is the winner of the Caldecott award and the creator of the Wheels on the Bus. He attended Yale College and that’s where he discovered his passion for writing as sophomore.
This is a story that I grew up hearing as a child and enjoyed rereading it in this book. I must admit that as I child I loved hearing this story over and over again. I liked hearing it so much because the poor queen got to beat the bad guy at his own game. However I had never seen a book with such great illustrations as this one. I love art and these illustrations definitely impressed me. They are so vivid and look so real that they make the children stop and stare at the pictures. Zelinsky does a great job of retelling this classical story.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega 5-25-08
6
Coles, Robert. The Story of Ruby Bridges. New York: Scholastic Inc., 1995. 32 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Historical Fiction. Language: English
This heart compelling book tells the story of a girl named Ruby who was born in Mississippi and moved to New Orleans her family was very poor. Ruby is a strong little six year old who decides that she is stand up for herself and attend an all white school. This book is filled with courage that will make kids want to stand up for what they believe in. Not only is the story great, but the illustrations that come with the book are outstanding. This book makes a great addition to any library. Dr. Cole is a child psychiatrist who has worked with children all over United States. He attended Harvard University and has done a lot of research for them on children. He currently lives in Boston, Massachusetts.
I had never heard of this book but I absolutely loved it. I think it teaches the children to have self-esteem and courage. It makes them want to stand up for what they believe in. It was written wonderfully by Mr. Cole. His area of expertise shines in this book. This book has the ability to touch children as well as adults. I look forward to one day reading this to my students. I loved one of the quotes in the book that illustrates the compassion that children can show towards ignorance: “Please, God, try to forgive those people. Because even if they say those bad things; They don’t know what they are doing.” This is a book teachers must read.
7
Lionni, Leo. A Color of His Own. New York: Alfred A. Knopf Publishers,
1975. 40 pages. Ages Baby to Preschool. Genre: Picture book. Language: English
This is the story of a chameleon searching for his own color, which ends up finding a true friend. This allows students to look not only at the different colors that the chameleon can turn, but the meaning of being unique. When the chameleon meets another chameleon they begin to travel together, and learn that friendship is more important. Mr. Lionni wrote and illustrated over 40 children’s books. He is four time winner of Caldecott award for his Inch by Inch, Frederick, Swimmy, and Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse.
I love this book because I believe that everyone can relate to it. We have all felt the need to belong and this book addresses this issue. The pictures are very colorful and illustrate the many colors the chameleon can turn. It is a very easy to read and follow book. The message behind this book is about being unique is great. I think that even though this book is for baby to preschool children it can be used with any grade level. The message goes beyond the grade levels.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
8
Johnson, Crockett. Harold and the Purple Crayon. New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 1955. 64 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre: Picture story book. Language: English.
This short story is about a little boy named Harold who one night decides to create his own adventure. Harold is able to this with the help of a purple crayon. He lets his imagination go wild and draws his adventures thru out the book. Crocket Johnson is actually this author’s nickname, his real name is David Johnson Leisk. Before becoming a children’s book illustrator he use to draw comic strips for the newspaper. He wrote an
illustrated over 20 books children. His characters were simple and unique, like Harold.
This is a great book that I enjoy reading over and over. It is a perfect book to show the children what you can do if you let your imagination go wild. I like this book because you can use it to model how to create your own stories. This allows the children to see that you do not need much to create a story but a crayon. The illustrations are very simple and to the point. This simple, short books makes a great addition to any library.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
9
Pelzer, Dave. A Child Called “IT”. Omaha, Nebraska: Health Communications Inc., 1995. 195 pages. Ages 15 and older. Genre: Chapter book/Survival story. Language: English.
This book is the author’s story about his child abuse case. He was severely abused by his mother and neglected by his father. In this book he tells the many different ways his mother tortured him. He recalls how he survived and gives inspiration to those who might have faced or a facing similar situation. Mr. Pelzer is the number one New York Times and international best selling author. He is the recipient of The National Jefferson Award. He is an inspirational man that has overcome many obstacles in his life.
This is one of my ultimate favorite books; I have read this several times and have cried every time. This book makes people reflect on the beauty of life. It is an inspiration to those who are facing similar situations. This book can be controversial but I think it’s important for every teacher to read because it allows them to see what students might be going thru. This book offers a special look on the abuse that some children go thru. Students can benefit from this book because it might give them inspiration to speak out if they are having problems or know someone who needs help.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
10.
Carle, Eric. The Very Hungry Caterpillar. New York: Philomel Publications Inc., 1981. 32 pages. Ages baby to preschool. Genre: Picture Book. Language: English.
This book allows the students to discover change. Thru this book they will discover how a fat caterpillar becomes a beautiful butterfly. This book with beautiful illustrations and pages that go from short to long will keep the students attention from beginning to end. This book has been translated into more than 45 languages and sold over 25 million copies. Mr. Carle has illustrated over seventy children books. He has won many awards for his work on this book.
This is one of absolute favorite books. So many lessons can be taught from this book. I recently did a lesson that integrated math and science that the children loved. They can learn to count, recognize fruit and discover change. They get to see how an ugly caterpillar can turn into a beautiful butterfly. This book can be integrated into every subject in the curriculum. It is a great book to start a thematic unit on butterflies. This classic is a must have in every library.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
Second 10 annotated books
1.
Flor Ada, Alma. Me llamo Maria Isabel. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1995. 58 pages. Ages: 4-10. Genre: Non-fiction. Language: Spanish and English.
This book is a great story about a little girl who moves from Puerto Rico to New York. She is afraid that she will not have any friends, but her real problem begins when her teacher introduces her as Mary and starts calling her that. Maria Isabel is afraid and does not know how to tell her teacher that her name is not Mary. As the story unfolds we discover the many feelings that Maria Isabel experiences. At the end of the book Maria Isabel’s wish becomes true when her teacher and classmates begin calling her by her name. Alma Flor Ada writes this book wonderfully, this book should be in every teacher’s library. Alma Flor Ada is the founder and First Editor in Chief
NABE, Journal of the National Association for Bilingual Education. Alma Flor Ada received several awards for many of her children’s books. Alma Flor Ada did her post-doctoral research at Harvard University
This is an excellent book that every teacher should read. As I read the book I could relate to Maria Isabel’s story. I could relate when she moved, and being called a different name. The story was easy to follow and had a great plot. This is a lesson for teacher and students to learn. As educators we must make and effort to call every child by the correct name. This book is a great addition to any library. I really enjoyed reading this book.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
2.
Silverstein,Shel. The Giving Tree. New York: Harper Collins, 2004. 64 pages. Ages: 4-8. Genre: Poetry. Language: English.
This book is about a little boy who becomes friends with a tree. As a little boy he asks the tree for things and the tree willingly gives them to him to make him happy. As the little boy gets older he keeps asking the tree for things until everything is gone. One day when he gets older he returns and realizes the tree has nothing left to give, but he also has nothing else to ask for. The only thing the boy wants is the trees friendship and company. This books simple illustration by Shel Silverstein goes beyond what words can say. Shel Silverstein grew up in Chicago and has won many awards for his books and illustrations.
This is an excellent book for reflections on how sometimes we ask for much and do not give anything in return. It made me reflect on how important a friendship can be. It also makes you think about how important the company things are. I loved reading this book because it truly makes me reflect on life. It is a great book that allows one to see how important it is not only to receive, but also to give. Students and teachers can learn valuable lessons form this book.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
3.
Munoz Ryan,Pam. Becoming Naomi Leon. New York: Scholastic Paperbacks, 2005. 272 pages. Ages: 13 to 18. Genre: Young Adult Novel. Language: English.
This book is an excellent book for young adults to read. It is the story of Naomi and her brother who were abandoned by their mother. Naomi is somewhat of an outcast who carves little sculptures of soap to pass time. Naomi and her brother live with their grandmother until one day their evil mother shows up and tries to reclaim them. The grandmother who is determined to let this happen takes them on a trip to find their long lost father to prevent the mother from taking them. This is where Naomi discovers herself when she realizes that her father also carves radishes. This book is filled with suspense and excitement. Pam Muñoz Ryan has written over twenty-five books for children. Her novel, Esperanza Rising is the winner of the Pura Belpre Medal.
This book is a great book to own it is a story of courage and hope. It allows the teacher and students to see how it feels to be an outcast. This book allows people to experience and feel the feelings that Naomi experiences through Pam’s writing. I think this book will allow the students to participate and interact in the discussions and issues that this book brings up. This book also incorporates culture and geography when Naomi and her family travel to Mexico. This is a great book for students and teachers.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
4.
Rowling,J.K. Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone. New York: Arthur A. Levine Books, 2003. 309 pages. Ages: 9 to 12. Genre: Contemporary fantasy . Language: English.
The book begins by introducing us to Harry and his family story. We soon find out that Harry is really a wizard, and is about to leave his horrible life. Harry embarks on a journey in his new school that introduces us to the art of wizardry and magic. We get to meet his friends Ron and Hermione and his enemies. This book is filled with surprises and magical problems that must be solved. J.K. Rowling hooks you in with this first book of her series. After reading this you are sure to look forward to reading the rest of the series. J.K. Rowling was born and raised in England. J K Rowling was voted author of the year at the 1999 British Book Awards and won the Booksellers Association Author of the Year award two years in a row (1998 and 1999). She won the W H Smith Children’s Book of the Year for 2000 and in 2004; she was awarded the WH Smith’s Fiction Award.
This is one of my favorite books. I love how this book has no boundaries and can take children and adults into a fantasy world. The characters encounter problems that they must face and overcome. Friendship and humor play a big role on why this is one of my favorite books. I would recommend this book not only for children but also for adults. It is a book that will take into a new unforgettable magical place.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
5.
Blume, Judy. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. New York: Penguin Group, 2003. 128 pages. Ages: 9 to 12. Genre: Contemporary realistic fiction. Language: English.
This book is about a fourth grader named Peter as the title implies. He has a little pest brother named Fudge who always manages to get him in trouble. Peter is tired of Fudge always following him around and bothering him. He is especially angry because Fudge manages to mess with his turtle Dribbles that he won at a birthday party. Fudge ends up plenty of messy situations that Peter must clean up. Judy Blume is the author of this book that she wrote in 1972 and still enjoyed by many. Judy Blume also writes books for adults. Judy Blume is a New York’s best selling author.
This book is very easy, fun, enjoyable reading for children. It is a book that many children can relate to. I know that when I read this as a child I could imagine myself in Peter shoes. I had a pest sister that was always getting me in trouble. I think this is one of the reasons kids enjoying reading this book because they can relate to Peter and the situations he has overcome. I think this book will encourage children to read some of Judy Blume’s other books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
6.
Carle, Eric. The Very Busy Spider. New York: Philomel Publication Inc., 2000. 24 pages. Ages: Baby to Preschool. Genre: Picture book. Language: English.
Thru this book the children are introduced to the concept of time with a busy spider. They will also be introduced to farm animals that can be found on a farm. These farm animals ask the spider to play but she is too busy to play. She builds her web because she needs to catch her food. By the end of the book the children get to see the spiders completed web. Mr. Carle has illustrated over seventy children books. He has won many awards for his work on this book.
This book like many other of Eric Carle books is one of my favorite. I love the illustrations that are found in this book. I also like how he uses nature to introduce new things to children. They will enjoy reading this book because it teaches them time, farm animals, and about spider. This a great book that makes a good addition to all the other Eric Carle books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
7.
Carle, Eric. Pancakes, Pancakes! New York: Scholastic Inc., 1990. 36 pages. Ages: 4 to 8. Genre: Picture story book. Language: English.
This book is about Jack who wants pancakes for breakfast, but before he can have them he must first get the ingredients together. He must go to the mill and get the wheat ready; he must also get an egg from a chicken, get milk from a cow, and make the butter. This book allows children to see the steps involved in making Jacks breakfast. It is very easy reading and has great illustrations. Eric Carle has illustrated over seventy children’s books and was won many awards for writing and illustrations.
I like this book because it shows children procedure. It allows them to see how pancakes are made from scratch. This book can be used for story sequencing it makes a great addition to children’s library. They can see that in order to make pancakes many items are needed. They can also discover where the items that are needed come from. They get an opportunity to see that milk comes from cows and eggs come from chickens. It is a very fun and entertaining book to read.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
8.
Numeroff, Laura Joffe. If You Give a Pig a Pancake. New York: Harper Collins Publisher, 1998. 32 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre Picture story book. Language: English
In this wonderfully illustrated book we get the opportunity to meet a pig. This little pig is given one pancake and after this he begins to ask for different silly items thru out the book. This book keeps the children’s attention by having them wonder what the pig could ask for next. Laura Joffe Numeroff grew up in Brooklyn, New York her mother a school teacher always surrounded her by art and books. In college she started out as fashion designer major and ended up hating everything about it.
This is another one of my favorite books, because the illustrations are so vivid. I love this book so much that I read it to my nephew and daughter all the time. Every time I read this book I feel like a little kid again. I love the way the author arranged the story to keep the children engaged. The little pig fills the story with suspense on what he will ask for next. This is a book that every teacher should have in her or his collection of books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
9.
Lionni, Leo. Frederick. New York: Dragonfly Books, 1973. 32 pages. Ages: 4 to 8. Genre: Picture book. Language: English
This story is about a mouse named Frederick that whiles all the other mice are busy preparing for winter he spends his time engaged in other things. Frederick would rather engage himself in collecting the suns rays, words, and colors. During the winter months the children will discover why Frederick collected the suns rays, colors, and words. Mr. Lionni wrote and illustrated over 40 children’s books. He is four time winner of Caldecott award for his Inch by Inch, Frederick, Swimmy, and Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse.
I think this book is one of Mr. Lionni's best works. His illustrations speak for themselves in this book. They fill up the pages with wonderful colors and images. The children will discover that not only is it necessary to gather food to survive that many other things can contribute to survival of winter. They will get to discover the magic of words when Frederick creates his poem at the end of the story.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega
10.
Numeroff, Laura Joffe. If You Give a Moose a Muffin. New York: Harper Collins Publisher, 1991. 32 pages. Ages 4-8. Genre Picture story book. Language: English
In this wonderfully illustrated book we get the opportunity to meet a moose. This moose is given one muffin and after this he begins to ask for different silly items thru out the book. This book keeps the children’s attention by having them wonder what the moose could ask for next. By the end of the story the moose finishes all the muffins offered by the host. Laura Joffe Numeroff grew up in Brooklyn, New York her mother a school teacher always surrounded her by art and books. In college she started out as fashion designer major and ended up hating everything about it.
This is another one of my favorite books, because the illustrations are so vivid. I love this book because it teaches the children about kindness and being a good host. Every time I read this book I feel like a little kid again. I love the way the author arranged the story to keep the children engaged. The little moose fills the story with suspense on what he will ask for next. This is a book that every teacher should have in her or his collection of books.
Reviewed by: Mary Guzman- Vega